Apparatus for opening compressed packages

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for controlling the opening of compressed packages, said apparatus comprising stationary and movable frameworks adapted to embrace a compressed package during opening, a release assembly carried by the stationary framework including a pair of reels affixed to a rotatable axle and carrying cables normally connected to the movable frame, and a hydraulic brake mechanism including a disc affixed to the axle and normally held against rotation by brake pads connected to hydraulic slave cylinders and master cylinder provided with a pump handle for manual operation to displace the pads and permit rotation of the disc for slow expansion of the compressed package. The movable frame automatically tilts back away from the package after opening to allow convenient package removal.

[451 Apr. 23, 1974 United States Patent [191 Guthrie APPARATUS FOR OPENING COMPRESSED Primary Examiner--Thomas H. Eager PACKAGES Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Clarence A. OBrien; Harvey B. Jacobson William J. Guthrie, El Paso, Tex.

ABSTRACT [75] Inventor:

[73] Assignee: Guthrie Machinery Company, E1

An apparatus for controlling the opening of compaso pressed packages, said apparatus comprising stationary and movable frameworks adapted to embrace a [22] Flled' Sept 1972 compressed package during opening, a release assema d dv .d n v4 nnebnwofl w WaH a wi .mr w n ma an m ab m k m mcmknm w n a md .m m.me $bm .ln d me ae ydrrS k la cn Phw e mfiO vM Wn.m Oy m a ahP c m m% mae o ml 1 cu h.m m d m fm m w w m n a r .1 mm dl e wa c ar .m h.mun. n wn hw ao .m t maode m cm mpme e dm xafi mOeVD-efa en... O.E f m m r w e l p mlg wuyan IOSOB ya t ak b mm kn s c 0a d mk hmdm .w O M 6 u acr le r a P edh o re r Tt ee e mm n a i l 0 land r. afg bpcawbmuoafi 07 D D 0 4 W 0 2 H M W 9 2 2B WBR m u Sm mum Tm MH d m no A .lD m 2 C n. m "m GT3 l mu AU 3 rT WW .mSM 2 uh 8 9 n C R 2 r E0 T7 J & 9 M NH l U2 C 1 m. M p te 7 I ll A U.| .F B ll] 0, H. 2 8 M w 2 555 5 v 3 3,596,339 8/1971 Turner, 29/200 D X package removal.

12 Claims, 5 Drawing Figures e a a.)

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I F WIF IH] 1 86 /4--, 60 n i In M i WWW | Ill Mi Fig. 3 62 HM mm W APPARATUS FOR OPENING COMPRESSED PACKAGES The present invention is generally related to package handling equipment and, more particularly, to an improved apparatus for opening inner spring bales and other compressed packages.

In recent years, it has become common practice to transport mattress and other furniture inner springs in compressed bales or packages between the inner spring supplier and the furniture manufacturer. This significantly reduces the overall volume of the freight, such that the inner springs may be shipped at considerably lower rates. Such packages are normally compressed to about one tenth their normal size andare tightly fastened with steel bands or the like prior to shipping. When opening such packages, care must be taken, as a considerable amountof energy is stored in the compression springs which, if not released properly, could cause considerable damage and injury. Accordingly, various devices have been proposed for controlled opening of such compressed packages. These devices, however, have been expensive to manufacture and for the most part, inefficient to operate. The operation of such conventional constructions often required the lifting and maneuvering of the packages, either manually or by specialized machinery, to effect loading and unloading. Such procedures were not only time consuming, but often required several workers, thereby increasing the cost of the overall operation.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved package opening apparatus which is of relatively simple construction and efficient to operate, requiring a minimum number of workers.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a unique compressed package opening apparatus including a pair of oppositely disposed frame-works adapted to rest on a floor or similar surface with a compressed package disposed therebetween, whereby loading and unloading may be easily effected without tedious lifting or maneuvering of the package. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a versatile package opening apparatus including a movable framework adapted to move along a floor surface or the like to accommodate controlled expansion of a compressed package, and which automatically tilts back away from the package upon completion of the unpacking operation.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a novel package opening apparatus including a hydraulic brake mechanism associated with a pair of package-embracing frameworks and normally locking the frameworks against relative movement, release being effected only upon selective manual operation of a pump handle associated with a hydraulic master cylinder.

These together with other objects and advantages which will become subsequently apparent reside in the details of construction and operation as more fully hereinafter described and claimed, reference being had to the accompanying drawings forming a part hereof, wherein like numerals refer to like parts throughout.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the package opening apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a side elevation of the apparatus of the present invention with a phantom view of a compressed package disposed therein.

FIG. 3 is a side elevation similar to FIG. 2, but with the package fully expanded and a phantom view of the movable framework in a tilted position.

FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of the brake mechanism associated with the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a side elevation of the brake mechanism shown in FIG. 4.

Referring now, more particularly, to FIG. 1 of the drawings, the package opening apparatus of the present invention is generally indicated by the numeral 10 and includes a stationary framework 12 oppositely disposed of a movable framework 14. Both frameworks rest upon a relatively flat planar surface, most floor surfaces being suitable for such purposes. Movable framework 14 is provided with two pairs of wheels or casters 16 and 17 which permit its easy movement toward and away from stationary framework 12. The stationary framework is comprised of a grid work of rigid frame members which are welded together and disposed in a generally vertical plane. A pair of horizontal leg members l8 and cross brace members 20 are attached to the stationary framework to maintain such in its generally vertical orientation. A generally flat panel 21 extends leg members 18 and provides a surface upon which the operator of the apparatus may stand.

Movable framework 14 is similar in construction to stationary framework 12, but is supported by brace members 22 and 24 such that it is inclined at an angle to the vertical when not in engagement with a compressed package, as hereinafter explained.

A release assembly, generally indicated by the numeral 26, is carried by stationary framework 12 and includes an elongated axle or shaft 28 rotatably supported by a plurality of bearings 30, 32, 34, and 36 spaced along its length. A pair of cable reels 38 and 40 are affixed to axle 28 for rotation therewith. Cables 42 and 44, or similar flexible members, extend between the reels and a pair of pulleys 46 and 48, provided with hooks 50 and 52, respectively, which retentatively embrace frame members on movable framework 14. The cables extend through the pulleys and are fastened at their ends to stationary framework 12 as indicated at 54 and 56.

It will be appreciated that when axle 28 is free to rotate, reels 38 and 40 can dispense or pay out cable permitting framework 14 to move away from stationary framework 12. Pulleys 46 and 48 provide a mechanical advantage which affords between control over the package opening operation. If desired, the cables may be connected directly to the movable framework or provided with additional pulleys, as required, to alter the mechanical advantage factor. By utilizing hooks 50 and 52, or similar readily removable fastening means, the cables may be quickly disconnected from movable frame 14. This permits the packages to be moved to and from the space between the frameworks without lifting or maneuvering the packages, as required with many conventional devices. Each compressed package may be supported on a dolly or the like for easy movement along the floor surface. When handling a large number of packages, one of the cables may be released, a compressed package rolled into position, and the cable replaced. The opened package may be removed from one side of the apparatus, while another compressed package is being loaded in the opposite side. Such an arrangement requires a minimum number of workers and permits the expeditious movement of the packages to and from the apparatus in a minimum amount of time.

Rotation of axle 28 is controlled by a hydraulic brake mechanism generally indicated by the numeral 58, controlled by a manual pump handle 60. The brake mechanism is spring-loaded, such that axle 28 is locked against rotation until the brake mechanism is released through operation of handle 60. Thus, a compressed package mounted snugly between the movable and stationary frameworks is prevented from expanding until pump handle 60 is operated. Slight manipulation of the handle will be effective to partially release the brake mechanism, such that the compression forces of the package exceed the brake forces, whereby the package is permitted to slowly expand with movable framework 14 moving along the floor surface.

With particular reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, operation of the apparatus may be more fully understood. As explained above, a fully compressed package is positioned between the stationary and movable frameworks, such a package being indicated in dash line at 62. A handwheel 64 affixed to one end of axle 28 is manually rotated in the direction of arrow 66 in order to bring movable framework 14 into snug engagement with the compressed package. Such engagement is accompanied by the movable framework assuming a generally vertical orientation with the rearmost pair of casters l7 lifting above the floor surface, as illustrated in FIG. 2. The shipping bands, such as those indicated at 68, or similar fastening means are then severed, or otherwise removed from the compressed package. The compression forces of the package tend to move framework 14 to the left as indicated by arrow 70. Such movement, however, is prevented by the brake mechanism, until pump handle 60 is manually operated.

Controlled operation of the pump handle is effective to permit rotation of the cable reels, whereby movable framework 14 moves to the left as the compressed package is permitted to expand, as illustrated in FIG. 3. It will be appreciated that the operator maintains control of the package expansion at all times. Release of the pump handle will be effective to stop the expansion, while partial return of the handle will slow down the rate of expansion. When the package becomes fully expanded, movable framework 14 tilts backward away from the package under the influence of its own weight until casters l7 engage the floor, as shown in phantom in FIG. 3. This substantially disengages the movable framework from the opened package, such that it may be easily maneuvered from between the frameworks subsequent to disconnection of the cables. Pump handle 60 may be provided with a latch mechanism, not illustrated, which permits the operator to set the brake mechanism in its released position to aid in rewinding the cables onto their respective reels by rotation of handwheel 64 when reloading the apparatus.

Referring now, more particularly, to FIGS. 4 and 5, it will be observed that brake mechanism 58 is provided with a pair of hydraulic slave cylinders 70 and 72 which are in fluid communication with hydraulic master cylinder 61. The slave cylinders are provided with internal pistons, not illustrated, connected to piston rods 74 and 76 which, in turn, are fastened to pressure brackets 78 and 80. A pair of brake pads 82 and 84 are mounted to pressure brackets 78 and 80, respectively, and are normally in engagement with a brake disc 86 under the influence of coil compression springs 88 associated with each pressure bracket. The brake mechanism is supported by a stationary mounting plate 90 appropriately fastened to the stationary framework. A stationary pair of brake pads 92 and 94 are mounted to plate 90 and are oppositely disposed of brake pads 82 and 84 for cooperative engagementwith disc 86. The brake disc is mounted to axle 28 for rotation therewith by way of a hub member 96 provided with a setscrew 98, or similar fastening means.

Manual operation of pump handle 60 is effective to force fluid into the hydraulic slave cylinders to cause movement of the associated piston rods to the right, as indicated by the arrows in FIG. 5. This withdraws brake pads 82 and 84 from locking engagement with the brake disc, such that the disc is free to rotate under the influence of the compression forces of the compressed package. Proper manipulation of the hydraulic pump handle maintains sufficient friction between the brake disc and pads, whereby the compressed package expands slowly.

From the foregoing description, it will be appreciated that the apparatus of the present invention provides a versatile means of controlled opening of compressed packages in a manner requiring a minimum amount of time and effort. The automatic tilt back of the movable framework, together with the readily removable cable fastening hooks, provides a means of quickly and conveniently loading and reloading the apparatus. The brake mechanism with coil compression springs normally locks the axle against rotation and provides for automatic return of the brake pads into engagement with the associated disc in the event that the operator should leave the pump handle unattended. It will be appreciated that the apparatus of the present invention may be installed at a minimum cost, as the frameworks require no fastening to the floor or surrounding structure. The mere frictional forces between leg members 18 and panel 21 of the stationary framework are sufficient to maintain such in position, particularly with the operator standing on the panel while operating the apparatus.

The foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

What is claimed as new is as follows:

1. An apparatus for controlled opening of compressed packages, said apparatus comprising a movable framework, a stationary framework oppositely disposed of said movable framework and oriented in a generally vertical plane, said stationary and movable frameworks being adapted to embrace a compressed package therebetween, said movable framework being movable between a first position wherein it engages the package in a fully compressed condition and a second position wherein said package is in a fully expanded condition, a release assembly mounted to one of said frameworks including selectively rotatable reel means, and at least one elongated, flexible member extending between said reel means and the other of said frameworks, said release assembly including brake means for selectively releasing said reel means to permit rotation thereof to dispense said elongated, flexible member to allow movement of said movable framework to said second position.

2. The structure set forth in claim 1 wherein said frameworks are disposed in generally vertical planes when engaging a compressed package, at least one of said frameworks including means for automatically tilting it to a position inclined with the vertical when the movable framework arrives at said second position to aid in the removal of the fully expanded package from between said frameworks.

3. The structure set forth in claim 2 wherein said release assembly includes a hook member carried by a pulley assembly through which said elongated, flexible member is guidingly received, said hook member being releasably anchored to said other framework and the free end of said flexible member being anchored to said stationary framework.

4. The structure set forth in claim 2 wherein said release assembly includes means for manual rotation of said reel means to return said movable framework from said second position to said first position.

S. The structure set forth in claim 4 wherein said release means include an axle rotatably mounted to said one framework with said reel means connected thereto for rotation therewith, said brake means normally operatively engaging said axle to prevent rotation thereof.

6. An apparatus for handling compressed packages, said apparatus comprising a stationary framework disposed in a generally vertical plane, a movable framework adapted to be moved over a generally horizontal surface, said frameworks adapted to embrace a compressed package therebetween, and a release assembly mounted to said stationary framework, said release assembly including a rotatably mounted axle, at least one reel attached to said axle for rotation therewith, an elongated, flexible member extending from said reel and normally connected to said movable frame, a first brake member attached to said axle for rotation therewith, a second brake member normally in engagement with said first brake member to prevent rotation thereof, and selectively operable means for influencing said second brake member away from said first brake member to permit rotation thereof.

7. The structure set forth in claim 6, wherein said release assembly includes means biasing said second brake member toward said first brake member, said selectively operable means including a hydraulic slave cylinder operatively connected to said second brake member, and a hydraulic master cylinder in fluid communication with said slave cylinder, said master cylinder including a manual operator to effect operation of said slave cylinder and release said first brake member for rotation.

8. The structure set forth in claim 7 wherein said first brake member includes a brake disc affixed to said axle for rotation therewith, said second brake member including a brake pad operatively connected to said slave cylinder for movement thereby.

9. An apparatus for handling compressed packages, said apparatus including a first stationary upright abutment member, a second movable upright abutment member supported from a lower portion thereof for movement toward and away from said first abutment member and locking movement between a first position with said second abutment member generally paralleling the first abutment member and a second position with the upper portion of said second abutment member swung, about the lower marginal portion of said second abutment member, away from said first abutment member and said second abutment member disposed in a position upwardly inclined away from said first abutment member, said second abutment member being weighted to rock, by gravity, from said first position to said second position, and force means operatively connected between said first abutment member and an area of said second abutment member, above said lower marginal portion, operative to selectively apply thrust to said area to move said second abutment member toward said first abutment member.

10. The combination of claim 9 wherein said force means includes means operative to controllably allow movement of said second abutment member away from said first abutment member.

11. The combination of claim 10 wherein said force means includes winding means and elongated flexible tension member means operatively connected to said winding member for winding thereon and unwinding therefrom operatively connected between said first member and said area of said second member.

12. The combination of claim 11 wherein said winding member is carried by said first member. 

1. An apparatus for controlled opening of compressed packages, said apparatus comprising a movable framework, a stationary framework oppositely disposed of said movable framework and oriented in a generally vertical plane, said stationary and movable frameworks being adapted to embrace a compressed package therebetween, said movable framework being movable between a first position wherein it engages the package in a fully compressed condition and a second position wherein said package is in a fully expanded condition, a release assembly mounted to one of said frameworks including selectively rotatable reel means, and at least one elongated, flexible member extending between said reel means and the other of said frameworks, said release assembly including brake means for selectively releasing said reel means to permit rotation thereof to dispense said elongated, flexible member to allow movement of said movable framework to said second position.
 2. The structure set forth in claim 1 wherein said frameworks are disposed in generally vertical planes when engaging a compressed package, at least one of said frameworks including means for automatically tilting it to a position inclined with the vertical when the movable framework arrives at said second position to aid in the removal of the fully expanded package from between said frameworks.
 3. The structure set forth in claim 2 wherein said release assembly includes a hook member carried by a pulley assembly through which said elongated, flexible member is guidingly received, said hook member being releasably anchored to said other framework and the free end of said flexible member being anchored to said stationary framework.
 4. The structure set forth in claim 2 wherein said release assembly includes means for manual rotation of said reel means to return said movable framework from said second position to said first position.
 5. The structure set forth in claim 4 wherein said release means include an axle rotatably mounted to said one framework with said reel means connected thereto for rotatiOn therewith, said brake means normally operatively engaging said axle to prevent rotation thereof.
 6. An apparatus for handling compressed packages, said apparatus comprising a stationary framework disposed in a generally vertical plane, a movable framework adapted to be moved over a generally horizontal surface, said frameworks adapted to embrace a compressed package therebetween, and a release assembly mounted to said stationary framework, said release assembly including a rotatably mounted axle, at least one reel attached to said axle for rotation therewith, an elongated, flexible member extending from said reel and normally connected to said movable frame, a first brake member attached to said axle for rotation therewith, a second brake member normally in engagement with said first brake member to prevent rotation thereof, and selectively operable means for influencing said second brake member away from said first brake member to permit rotation thereof.
 7. The structure set forth in claim 6, wherein said release assembly includes means biasing said second brake member toward said first brake member, said selectively operable means including a hydraulic slave cylinder operatively connected to said second brake member, and a hydraulic master cylinder in fluid communication with said slave cylinder, said master cylinder including a manual operator to effect operation of said slave cylinder and release said first brake member for rotation.
 8. The structure set forth in claim 7 wherein said first brake member includes a brake disc affixed to said axle for rotation therewith, said second brake member including a brake pad operatively connected to said slave cylinder for movement thereby.
 9. An apparatus for handling compressed packages, said apparatus including a first stationary upright abutment member, a second movable upright abutment member supported from a lower portion thereof for movement toward and away from said first abutment member and locking movement between a first position with said second abutment member generally paralleling the first abutment member and a second position with the upper portion of said second abutment member swung, about the lower marginal portion of said second abutment member, away from said first abutment member and said second abutment member disposed in a position upwardly inclined away from said first abutment member, said second abutment member being weighted to rock, by gravity, from said first position to said second position, and force means operatively connected between said first abutment member and an area of said second abutment member, above said lower marginal portion, operative to selectively apply thrust to said area to move said second abutment member toward said first abutment member.
 10. The combination of claim 9 wherein said force means includes means operative to controllably allow movement of said second abutment member away from said first abutment member.
 11. The combination of claim 10 wherein said force means includes winding means and elongated flexible tension member means operatively connected to said winding member for winding thereon and unwinding therefrom operatively connected between said first member and said area of said second member.
 12. The combination of claim 11 wherein said winding member is carried by said first member. 